Van Niekerk and Puig Scoop Top Honors at ANOC Awards Gala

South African 400 meter runner Wayde van Niekerk and Puerto Rican tennis player Monica Puig claimed the best male and best female athletes of Rio 2016 titles at the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) Awards Gala.

Van Niekerk was awarded for the the stunning world record time of 43.03 seconds he ran en-route to gold over one lap in the Brazilian city.

The time, 0.15 seconds quicker than the previous record mark achieved by Michael Johnson in 1999, was particularly noteworthy because it was run from lane eight.

Judoka Majlinda Kelmendi claimed Kosovan gold in the country’s Olympic debut, with the under 52 kilograms star singling out International Judo Federation President Marius Vizer for praise during her speech.

The Refugee Olympic Team received an ANOC Award for Inspiring Hope through Sport, while Rio 2016 and Brazilian Olympic Committee President Carlos Nuzman received a special award celebrating the success of Rio 2016.

Qatar Emir and IOC member Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani received an ANOC Award for Contribution to the Olympic Movement, but it was accepted on his behalf by Qatar Olympic Committee head, Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani.

“The Rio 2016 Olympic Games produced many memorable sporting memories created by inspirational athletes from around the world,” said ANOC President Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah.

“The athletes and their respective NOCs are at the very heart of every Olympic Games.

“It is their hard work and commitment that contributes to the success of the Games and it is important these achievements are recognized and honored.

“Tonight has been a fantastic evening for the world’s NOCs, an opportunity to thank and give back to them after all they give to the Olympic Movement.”

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